What a world, eh?!
Community on edge after Piedmont Park murder
August 24, 2021 rbbm.
''It’s nerve-racking knowing that a killer is on the loose,” senior Jamie Roode said. “This is the kind of stuff that I watch in “Criminal Minds.” It really shouldn’t happen in real life.”
“Since the murder, I haven’t been walking at night,” Maggard said. “I try not to be coming home super late from anywhere, and I am just more vigilant altogether. This was an awful occurrence, and I really hope that they catch whoever did this.”
Roode works at Sean’s Heart of the Park, which is located not far from where the two bodies were found.
The restaurant is taking new precautions since the murder, especially for those working later shifts. According to Roode, employees have been told to return to their cars together and walk in the street where lights and cameras are present.
“I know that they’re taking precautions, which is assuring, but still, of course, you’re going to be scared,” Roode said. “I mean as a girl, it’s terrifying literally anywhere. And after the murder, [there is] no way that I want to walk over there. It’s still really scary.”
''After the murder, Roode said she feels “very unsafe” when outside no matter the time or her location, and says she will likely begin carrying her pepper spray in her hand instead of her purse.''
“To all the guys who are going to read this story, just make sure that you protect your female or non-binary friends, and make sure that you’re keeping them safe,” Roode said. “If a murderer sees you with a man, there’s probably a lesser chance that they’ll attack.''
This is the Park Drive entrance at Piedmont Park.
